The exclamatory paradise whydah or Uelle paradise whydah is a species of bird in the family Viduidae. It is also known as the long-tailed paradise whydah, a name which may also refer to the related species Vidua paradisaea.
Region
West and Central Africa
Typical Environment
Occurs patchily across savanna belts and open woodlands, from West Africa east into the Congo Basin and adjacent regions. Prefers grassy landscapes with scattered trees, shrub-dotted plains, and edges of cultivation where seed resources are abundant. Often found near watercourses with riparian thickets and along fallow fields. Presence is closely tied to the distribution of host estrildid finches, which it parasitizes.
Altitude Range
0–2000 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
Also called the Uelle paradise whydah, this brood-parasitic finch lays its eggs in the nests of estrildid finches and its chicks are raised by the hosts. Breeding males develop spectacularly long black tail streamers and striking contrasty plumage for display flights. They are noted vocal mimics, incorporating the calls of their host species into their own songs. The name long-tailed paradise whydah can cause confusion, as it may also refer to the related Vidua paradisaea.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with buoyant display flights
Social Behavior
Forms small flocks outside the breeding season and often associates loosely with other seed-eating finches. A brood parasite of estrildid finches, especially Pytilia species, laying eggs that mimic the host’s. Males perform aerial displays around host territories while females locate host nests for parasitism.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
Song features rich whistles and trills interspersed with clear mimicry of host finch calls. Males sing persistently during display flights and from exposed perches.
